Influence of Indigenous Cultural Practices on Islamic Marriage Ceremonies in Anambra State

This study examines the influence of indigenous Igbo cultural practices on Islamic marriage ceremonies among Muslims in Anambra State, South East Nigeria. The Muslim minority in Anambra, predominantly of northern Nigerian origin or second-generation converts, navigates a complex socio-cultural space in which Islamic marital rites intersect with strong Igbo traditional ceremonies. The study adopts a qualitative descriptive design, using semi-structured interviews with 25 Muslim couples, 10 Islamic scholars, and 8 traditional rulers' representatives in Onitsha, Awka, and Nnewi. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings reveal that Muslim marriages in Anambra routinely incorporate elements of Igbo traditional ceremonies such as wine-carrying, bride price negotiations in line with Igbo custom, and extended family feast observances, alongside the Islamic Nikah rite. Scholars interviewed hold varying positions on the permissibility of these hybrid practices, with some viewing them as cultural adaptations and others as innovations requiring correction. The study recommends scholarly engagement in developing guidelines that distinguish culturally acceptable practices from those that contradict Islamic marital law, and ongoing dialogue between Muslim and Igbo traditional institutions. Keywords: Islamic marriage, Igbo culture, cultural practices, Anambra State, Muslim minority.